Does Zoysia Grass Really Work?

Pros

• Lawns of zoysia are tolerant of extreme heat and drought. They are ideal for high traffic areas because of zoysia's durability. The species also has few pest and disease problems. Except for recommended fall applications, zoysia grass requires less fertilization than traditional lawns.

Cons

• A zoysia lawn is slow to establish and can be difficult to mow due to its coarseness. A reel mower is recommended for best results. A zoysia lawn requires periodic dethatching to maintain its vigor. It often loses its color in the fall, if it is not fertilized.

Conclusions

• Zoysia may be the answer for you if you live in a warm climate. It is more costly to establish but may pay dividends in the form of reduced maintenance over time. However, if you live in the northern part of the country, it is not likely the answer to your lawn problems.